Marquette County Soil Data
Marquette County, Michigan
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.4
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
51.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Marquette County, Michigan
Acidic Aridisols of the Upper Peninsula
Marquette County soils are classified as Aridisols and carry a very acidic average pH of 4.38. This is significantly lower than the national median of 6.5 and even the state's acidic average of 5.30. These conditions are ideal for acid-loving native plants but require lime for traditional vegetable gardens.
High Sand Profile with Minimal Clay
The soil composition consists of 20.5% sand, 13.9% silt, and a very low 1.4% clay content. This low clay percentage means the soil has very little natural structure or nutrient-holding capacity from mineral sources. Much of the soil's behavior is dictated by its high volume of organic material rather than mineral grit.
Exceptional Organic Matter and Moisture Retention
Marquette County boasts a massive 51.77% organic matter content, which is more than double the state average of 19.76%. This organic richness drives an available water capacity (AWC) of 0.333 in/in, far exceeding the state average of 0.202. This soil is a powerhouse for retaining water and providing organic nutrients to plants.
Organic Drainage Patterns in Wild Terrain
Formal drainage classes and hydrologic groups are currently unmapped for the dominant soil types in this county. The high organic content and low clay suggest that while the soil is spongy, it can become saturated quickly. Careful management is needed when planning structures or drainage systems in these peat-like environments.
Cold-Hardy Gardening in Zone 5a
In hardiness zone 5a, Marquette gardeners should focus on short-season and cold-tolerant plants like potatoes, berries, and conifers. Blueberries are particularly well-suited to the natural acidity of this 4.38 pH soil. Get outside and start a garden that thrives in the rugged beauty of the U.P.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 4.4. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Marquette County have?
Marquette County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 20% sand, 14% silt, and 1% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Marquette County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Marquette County's soil has a low pH of 4.4, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Marquette County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Marquette County.
What crops or plants grow well in Marquette County's soil?
Based on Marquette County's Loam texture, pH of 4.4, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Marquette County?
Marquette County's dominant soil order is Aridisols. Aridisols are soils of dry environments with low organic matter. They often have salt or calcium carbonate accumulations at depth.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Marquette County
Soil Verdict
Marquette County is in USDA hardiness zone 5a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -20°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.
Planting Guidance
A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. With extreme winter lows, any marginally hardy plants need heavy mulch and wind protection. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Marquette County closely matches the Michigan average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 4a-5b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Marquette County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Michigan
Soil data sourced from USDA SSURGO via Soil Data Access. Data is informational only and should not be used as a substitute for on-site soil testing. Contact your local NRCS office for site-specific soil information.